MERSEYSIDE Police has won a national award for its work with criminals who have drug problems.

Operation Tower was set up in 2002 in an attempt to provide support in order to rehabilitate drug users.

Sefton based Operation Tower involves a number of agencies including Merseyside Police, the Probation Service, Primary Care Trust and Sefton Council.

The project dealt with drug users who are prolific offenders, by providing either fast-track rehabilitation with access to a doctor, treatment and support or increased police enforcement.

The operation is seen as a significant reason for the 50 per cent reduction in burglaries in Sefton. They have targeted 84 criminals, 47 of whom have been successfully rehabilitated, 24 are under supervision and 13 have returned to prison due to breaches.